A TOTAL of 46 parents attended a session at Ballakermeen High School in Douglas to help them understand "modern" mathematics.

A statement released by the Department of Education and Children said at meetings of the parents' forum it became clear that many mums and dads wanted to understand the new methods their children are learning so that they could offer better help and support.

Teachers Helen Briggs, Lisa Marshal and Pauline Millard led an exciting and engaging programme which included an introduction to Mymaths, an important online resource.

Parents reacted very favourably to the event as they felt much better informed and able to contribute to their children's learning, especially homework.

There were also many requests for similar sessions in other subjects, and these are now being planned, beginning with Science and English.

Teacher Debbie Evans, who has been working on improving communication and co-operation with parents, said: "This is the latest development in a number of initiatives to work more closely with parents and carers and it has been a great success.

"We are now going to extend the scope and number of sessions on offer to include a range of subjects in response to what our parents are telling us they want."

Ballakermeen holds the prestigious Leading Parent Partnership Award for excellence in working with the families of its students.